FAQs for Donors

FAQs for Donors

Commonly Asked Questions

Are Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs) new?Yes! Through a new program brought into existence in the 2021 Ohio legislative session, Ohioans can receive a 100% non-refundable tax credit against their Ohio income tax liability for their contributions to a scholarship granting organization. Currently, the program allows for a maximum credit amount, dollar-for-dollar, of $750 per person (or $1,500 if married filing jointly).

What is the Lutheran Scholarship Granting Organization of Ohio (LSGOO)?
The Lutheran Scholarship Granting Organization of Ohio’s purpose it to raise scholarship dollars for students to attend Christian schools throughout Ohio. The LSGOO makes it possible for Ohioans to contribute funds to be allocated to the participating school(s) of the donor’s choice. The schools then allocate the scholarship funds, with priority given to students from low-income households.

Can contributions be earmarked for a specific school?
Yes! Donations can be designated for donor-specified school(s), if the school(s) participate in the LSGOO program (find a complete listing at CLHSA.org/LSGO and click on “Participating Schools”). Contributors to the LSGOO also have the option to give an undesignated contribution that will support schools and students in the Lutheran system based upon need. Scholarships resulting from ALL contributions will be prioritized to students from low-income families.

Who benefits from the LSGOO?
- Students & Families: Donations to the LSGO of Ohio make private Christian education a reality for more students and families.
- Ohio’s Christian Schools: Donations to the LSGO of Ohio allow schools to offer more tuition assistance to families who want to be part of their school communities.
- You, the Ohio Taxpayer: Donors to the LSGO of Ohio qualify to receive a non-refundable tax credit* for their donations, which will be applied to their Ohio income tax liability, dollar-for-dollar, up to $750 (or $1,500 for couple filing jointly, where each person separately donates $750 or more).

Is the tax credit the same as a tax deduction?
No, a tax deduction reduces your taxable income, while a tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar (up to $750 per person or $1,500 if married filing jointly) credit for your donation. The non-refundable tax credit is then applied against any taxes you pay to the State of Ohio.*

Where can I learn more and make my donation?
Visit CLHSA.org/LSGO to learn more about the Lutheran Scholarship Granting Organization of Ohio and to make your contribution securely online.

* The Lutheran Scholarship Granting organization of Ohio is not a tax-advisory organization. Please consult your tax professional to determine how this giving opportunity may impact your individual tax outcome.